Greenpeace condemns Japan government’s "sneaky" withdrawal

Wednesday, 26
December - Greenpeace condemns the Japanese Government’s
formal announcement today to officially withdraw from the
International Whaling Commission (IWC), with the intention
to resume commercial whaling in its territorial waters and
exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Previous media reports had
indicated that government of Japan was considering pulling
out of the IWC, but the announcement today formalises the
country’s intentions to leave the organisation.

Sam
Annesley, Executive Director at Greenpeace Japan
said:

"It’s clear that the government is trying to sneak
in this announcement at the end of year, away from the
spotlight of international media, but the world sees this
for what it is. The declaration today is out of step with
the international community, let alone the protection needed
to safeguard the future of our oceans and these majestic
creatures. The government of Japan must urgently act to
conserve marine ecosystems, rather than resume commercial
whaling.

"As a result of modern fleet technology,
overfishing in both Japanese coastal waters and high seas
areas has led to the depletion of many whale species. Most
whale populations have not yet been recovered, including
larger whales such as blue whales, fin whales and sei
whales.

"The world’s oceans face multiple threats such
as acidification and plastic pollution, in addition to
overfishing. As a country surrounded by oceans where
people’s lives have been heavily reliant on marine
resources, it is essential for Japan to work towards healthy
oceans. Japan’s government has so far failed to resolve
these problems.

"As the chair of the G20 in 2019, the
Japanese government needs to recommit to the IWC and
prioritise new measures for marine
conservation."ENDS

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